The author presents a careful history of the evolution of the surgical procedure, with a detailed discussion of the everexpanding number of conditions in which tracheotomy properly is utilized to correct both mechanical respiratory obstruction and secretional ventilatory obstruction. It is noted that each year the use of tracheotomy in the treatment of secretional ventilatory obstruction increases, while its use for mechanical respiratory obstruction remains at a fairly constant incidence.

A series of 310 tracheotomies performed on a group of 300 patients is rather thoroughly evaluated with regard to indications for, performance of, and complications resulting from the various methods used to create tracheostomies. Techniques are described, discussed, and evaluated from both the clinical and the experimental standpoints. The conclusions derived from the study are presented in a concise and lucid fashion, and so one is able to benefit from vast experiences gained by others. Certainly this volume is a